A federal appeals court has upheld a $5-million verdict against Donald Trump in favor of E. Jean Carroll. The court rejected Trump's arguments about trial errors, reinforcing earlier rulings that held him liable for sexually abusing and defaming Carroll.
Background of the Case
The verdict stems from allegations by E. Jean Carroll, a former magazine columnist, who accused Trump of sexually assaulting her in the mid-1990s. The incident allegedly took place in a dressing room at Bergdorf Goodman, a New York department store. Carroll also sued Trump for defamation after he publicly dismissed her claims as a hoax on his Truth Social platform in 2022.
In May 2023, a Manhattan jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation, awarding Carroll $5 million. The jury, however, did not find sufficient evidence to conclude that Trump committed rape.
Key Appeals Court Findings
Use of Evidence: The appeals court ruled that evidence presented during the trial, including the 2005 "Access Hollywood" video, was relevant. The video showed Trump boasting about forcing himself on women, which the court described as consistent with Carroll's allegations.
Pattern of Behavior: Testimony from two other women who accused Trump of sexual misconduct was deemed admissible. The court noted a "repeated, idiosyncratic pattern of conduct" in Trump’s behavior.
Rejected Claims: Trump’s lawyers argued that the trial was unfair because of the inclusion of certain evidence, including claims of funding by Democratic donor Reid Hoffman. The court dismissed these concerns, citing their minimal relevance.
Trump’s Response
A spokesperson for Trump called the ruling part of a "Democrat-funded hoax" and vowed to continue appealing the case. While it remains unclear if Trump will escalate the case to the U.S. Supreme Court, his legal team has signaled their intent to pursue further challenges.
Second Jury’s $83 Million Verdict
In a separate trial, a different jury in January 2024 ordered Trump to pay Carroll $83.3 million for defamation stemming from his 2019 comments. Trump had claimed Carroll fabricated her accusations to promote her memoir, further harming her reputation.
What’s Next?
Carroll’s lawyer, Roberta Kaplan, welcomed the appellate court’s decision, emphasizing that it brings justice closer for her client. Meanwhile, Trump, now campaigning for the presidency, continues to face legal challenges that could overshadow his political ambitions.
The appellate court’s decision underscores the legal precedent that sitting presidents do not have immunity from civil litigation for actions taken before or unrelated to their time in office. This ongoing litigation reflects a complex intersection of law, politics, and accountability as both parties prepare for the next steps in this highly publicized case.
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